JP2019533791A - Humidification module for air treatment equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a humidification mounting module 66 configured to be coupled to the air treatment device 10, which module includes a fluid distribution unit 88 for humidified fluid supplied by a fluid reservoir 86, and an inlet air flow 120. And a second flow path defined between the flow inlet 74 and the second flow outlet 78, a first flow path defined between the flow inlet 74 and the first flow outlet 76, and a second flow path defined between the flow inlet 74 and the second flow outlet 78. And the flow dividing unit 100, the first flow path bypasses the fluid distribution unit 88, the second flow path passes through the fluid distribution unit 88, and the flow division unit 100 , And is operable to divide the overall flow through the humidification module into a first flow path component 122 and a second flow path component 124. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to an air treatment device 10 and a method for expanding the air treatment device 10.

Description

  The present disclosure relates to an air treatment device. More generally, the present invention relates to household appliances configured to treat the ambient air of a building to improve the happiness of current residents.

  More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an expanded air treatment device that includes a humidification function in addition to other air treatment mechanisms such as an air cleaning function.

  U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,155 discloses a water reservoir, a housing defining an air inlet opening, an air outlet opening, a generally V-shaped wicking element in fluid communication with the reservoir, and above the wicking element. And a generally V-shaped air filter removably mounted within the wicking element, a blower for flowing air through the air inlet opening, the wicking element, the air filter, and the air outlet opening; A humidifier / air purifier is disclosed.

  The air treatment apparatus can be used not only in residential areas but also in work areas such as offices, workshops, and stores. So-called single-purpose air cleaning devices are commercially available. An air cleaning device is a device that is configured to remove small particles and contaminants from indoor air. These devices are generally considered beneficial for allergic and asthmatic patients and to reduce or eliminate secondary smoking. Further application fields are conceivable.

  These devices can be regarded as household appliances that improve the quality of room air in the building. The air cleaning device can use a set of filters for cleaning indoor air, for example. In addition, an air quality sensor may be provided. A ventilation unit may be provided that generates an air flow through the instrument.

  However, it has been observed that the air purification function can be improved when the air flowing through the device is not only purified but also humidified. In this connection, so-called composite air purification devices and humidifiers have been proposed. However, these composite devices have often been observed to compromise at least one of the purification and humidification functions. In addition, independent humidifiers are known. In general, however, these devices are not configured to be operably coupled to a separate cleaning device.

  An object of the present disclosure is to provide an enhanced air treatment device and a humidification module configured to augment an air treatment device. Preferably, the humidification module increases the air cleaning capability of the device. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide a humidification module that can be manufactured and assembled without significant effort.

  There is a need for a humidification module configured to improve a stand-alone air purifier. Preferably, the module is configured as a mounting module and is adapted to the existing shape and function of the present air cleaning device. More preferably, the humidification module allows control of air flow through the module including control of humidification.

In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a ventilation unit that generates an air flow through the device;
An air purification module for purifying the air;
A main housing having a flow outlet for the purified air;
A humidification mounting module having a flow inlet for the purified air and a housing portion having a first flow outlet;
An outlet grille 20 for covering one of the flow outlet 46 and the first flow outlet 76, the humidifying attachment module 66 and the outlet grille 20 being configured by the device 10, An extended configuration in which the humidifying attachment module 66 covers the flow outlet 46 instead of the outlet grill 20, and a non-expanded configuration in which the outlet grill 20 covers the flow outlet 46. An air treatment device is provided that replaceably covers the flow outlet 46 so that it can be configured to select both.

Humidification mounting module
A fluid dispensing unit for the humidified fluid supplied by the fluid reservoir;
Said flow inlet for inlet air flow;
A first flow path defined between the flow inlet and the first flow outlet;
A second flow path defined between the flow inlet and the second flow outlet;
A flow dividing unit,
The first flow path bypasses the fluid distribution unit;
The second flow path passes through the fluid distribution unit;
The flow dividing unit may be operable to divide the entire flow through the humidification module into a first flow path component and a second flow path component. The fluid reservoir may also be part of the humidification mounting module.

  The outlet grill may be secured to the main housing such that the outlet grill covers the flow outlet. This can be accomplished by a complementary connection including a male-female joint between a first securing member on the outlet grille and a second securing member associated with the flow outlet of the main housing. . The housing portion of the humidifying attachment module is another first associated with a flow inlet complementary to the second securing member so that the humidifying attachment module can be attached to the main housing, i.e., when an expanded configuration is employed. The fixing member can be provided. The housing portion has another second securing member associated with the first flow outlet, and a housing grip can be attached to the housing to cover the first flow outlet.

  This embodiment is based on the insight that the humidification module may provide two channels, one of which can be regarded as a humidified channel and the other as a dry channel or a non-humidified channel. By providing the diversion unit, the ratio of humidified air to dry air in the entire outlet air flow can be easily controlled. As a result, the operation performance and controllability of the humidification module are greatly improved. By providing two channels, one cooperating with the fluid distribution unit and the other not cooperating with the fluid distribution unit, a simple mechanism is provided for adjusting the overall humidification. Similar to a water tap arranged to mix cold and hot water, mixing the humidified and non-humidified flow components essentially results in a fairly wide range of resulting humidity. Can be selected.

  The humidification module itself does not require a ventilation unit. Rather, the humidification module is configured to utilize the outlet flow of the air treatment device supplied by its ventilation unit.

  Preferably, the fluid distribution unit includes two parts disposed opposite to each other on opposite walls of the housing part. For example, two fluid distribution pads can be provided. Further, the second flow path that can pass through the fluid distribution unit and take in the humidified fluid therefrom may be divided into two parts. For example, the first flow path that bypasses the fluid distribution unit may be a central flow path that flows upward through the module. The first channel may be disposed between the two split components of the second channel. The components of the second flow path can escape from the humidification module through the opposite side wall.

  The first flow can generally be referred to as a dry flow or a non-humidified flow. The second flow may be generally referred to as a humidified flow. The air treatment device can be mainly configured as an air purification device.

  Both the first flow path component and the second flow path component jointly define the overall flow through the humidification attachment module. Theoretically, each flow component has a share of 0% to 100% of the total flow. In practice, there may be embodiments where none of the flow components are completely blocked.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the fluid distribution unit includes an absorbent material provided by a fluid reservoir and configured to store a humidified fluid entrained by a passing air stream.

  Absorbent materials may be referred to as wick materials, sponge materials, fabric materials, tissue materials, and the like. The purpose of the absorbent material is to provide a fluid for retraction by temporarily storing a fluid (typically water) and passing an air stream thus humidified.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the absorbent material includes a core material that forms at least one wick pad configured to be impregnated with a humidifying fluid. The core material can temporarily store the humidified fluid and gradually distribute it.

  In the exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the wick material is associated with the second flow outlet. Preferably, two opposing wick pads are provided that are located on either side of the humidification module that jointly form the second flow outlet.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the fluid distribution unit comprises at least two parts spaced apart from each other, and the first flow outlet has a first flow path with at least two of the fluid distribution unit. Move the section towards the first flow outlet.

  As a result, a fairly large channel cross section of the first channel and the second channel is provided even though only limited installation space is provided. Of course, each of the at least two sections of the fluid distribution unit can be provided with a respective absorbent material, in particular a wick pad.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the flow split unit includes at least one adjustable shunt operable to adjust the ratio between the first flow path component and the second flow path component. Including. As used herein, a shunt may be controlled to selectively prevent or allow a particular flow path. This can be achieved by blocking or releasing the cross section of the flow path, respectively.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the at least one adjustable shunt is arranged as a movable louver, and the at least one adjustable shunt is arranged to pivot about a pivot axis, thereby Depending on the actual swivel condition, the inlet air flow is split.

  In other words, the shunt may be arranged as a shutter. In certain embodiments, the shunt can be manually activated. In certain embodiments, the shunt may be motor driven. For example, a step motor can be envisaged to supply power to the shunt. In some embodiments, two shunts are provided. In certain embodiments, the two shunts are configured to operate synchronously.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, a pair of opposing louvers are provided, each of these louvers being associated with a portion of the fluid distribution unit, and the opposite louver is in the second swirl state of the entire flow. The first flow path component is suppressed, and the louver on the opposite side suppresses the second flow path component of the entire flow in the first turning state.

  Preferably, the two louvers are arranged to jointly block the first flow outlet in the second swivel state, wherein each of the two louvers (split or distributed) is second Block each flow outlet section.

  When the louver suppresses a particular flow component, the sharing of other components of the flow is enhanced. Opposing louvers at least partially block one of the flow paths depending on the actual turning state. Further, since the louver is associated with the flow inlet of the humidifying attachment module, the inlet flow can be bypassed and / or deflected by the louver, preferably to maintain the overall flow rate.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the mounting module, the fluid reservoir comprises a water compartment defining a bypass opening for the first flow path component, and the fluid reservoir passes the second flow path component to the second flow outlet. A guide surface is provided to guide the user.

  Preferably, the water compartment surrounds the bypass opening. Thus, the water compartment forms a frame that extends around the bypass opening. As a result, a fluid reservoir is also arranged for flow guidance. Preferably, the fluid reservoir includes at least one inclined lateral guide surface for deflecting the second flow component and directing the second flow component to the second flow outlet.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting module further comprises an indicator extension configured to operate a status switch on the main housing when the mounting module is installed, the status switch having the outlet grill removed. When, i.e., removed from the housing part, the operation of the mounting module is disabled.

  The status switch is also called a safety switch. The status switch can be configured as a reed switch. As a result, the indicator for the status switch may be a permanent magnet attached to the cover grill or operably coupled. According to this embodiment, the status switch is configured to detect presence or an indicator.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the attachment module is configured to be attached to the air treatment device in a snap-on implementation manner. Preferably, the mounting module is configured to be mounted to the air treatment device in a top mounting manner. In other words, the mounting module forms an upper extension of the overall shape of the air treatment device. Furthermore, the mounting module can be adapted to the interface of the air treatment device originally provided for the outlet grill.

In other aspects of the disclosure,
A main housing;
A ventilation unit that generates an air flow through the device;
An air purification module;
A humidification module,
A fluid reservoir for the humidified fluid;
A fluid dispensing unit supplied by or coupled to the fluid reservoir;
A flow inlet for purified air inlet air flow supplied from an air purification module;
A first flow path defined between the flow inlet and the first flow outlet;
A second flow path defined between the flow inlet and the second flow outlet;
A flow splitting unit;
The first flow path bypasses the fluid distribution unit;
The second flow path passes through the fluid distribution unit,
An air treatment device is provided that is operable to divide the overall flow through the humidification module into a first flow path component and a second flow path component.

  According to this aspect, a combined air purification and humidification device is provided that is configured to capture and remove additional particles from the passing air for the additional filtering function provided by the humidification module. In some embodiments, the fluid distribution unit comprises a wick pad or plate configured to impregnate the humidifying liquid. The air stream passing through such a device is further filtered or washed. Furthermore, the humidification function can have a positive effect on the indoor air in which the device operates.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the air treatment device, the ventilation unit includes at least one centrifugal blower configured to draw in intake air through at least one lateral inlet opening in the main housing and blow out compressed air upward. including. Preferably there are two side inlets aligned with the central axis of the ventilator. Therefore, the air treatment device also requires only a limited installation space and base area.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the air treatment device, the air humidification module is disposed on top of the air purification module and is supplied with purified air flowing upward, and the first flow outlet of the air humidification module is the upper outlet. The flow outlet of the air humidification module is a side outlet. Preferably, two side outlets are provided. As a result, most of the outer surface provided by the humidification module is used for air flow. Therefore, an effective air flow cross-sectional area can be basically maintained.

  In an exemplary embodiment, the air treatment device further comprises a status switch configured to disable operation of the air treatment device when the cover grill of the first flow outlet of the humidification module is removed.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for expanding an air treatment device comprising:
Providing said air treatment device having a housing, at least one ventilation unit, at least one air purification module, an outlet grill covering a flow outlet of the air treatment device, and a humidification mounting module;
Removing the outlet grill from the housing of the air treatment device;
Placing the humidifying attachment module in the housing instead of the outlet grille;
Placing the outlet grille at a first flow outlet of the humidifying attachment module.

  The above arrangement has the advantage that the humidification module uses the outlet grill of the device, in particular its air purification module. Thus, no additional exit grill is required. Furthermore, when the humidification module is attached to the device, there is no major threat to losing this part because it does not overlap.

  In one embodiment, the status switch of the air treatment device is activated by arranging the outlet grille. Thus, when the humidification module is placed on the housing of the air treatment device, a safety function is provided by maintaining the status switch of the air treatment device by expanding the indicator on the outlet grill.

  Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. It is to be understood that the claimed method has the same preferred embodiment as and / or the same as the claimed module and / or apparatus and is defined in the dependent claims.

These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent with reference to the embodiments described below.
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an air treatment device configured as an air purification device. FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in a partially disassembled state. FIG. 3 shows a perspective rear end plan view of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2 with the outlet cover arranged as a top grill being partially removed from the upper end of the apparatus housing. FIG. 4 shows a simplified schematic block diagram of the internal components of the apparatus according to the configuration of FIGS. FIG. 5 shows a further perspective view of the device according to FIGS. 1 and 2 provided with a humidification module arranged as an attachment module and shown in a detached state. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the humidification module having the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the humidification module of FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 8 shows a simplified schematic diagram of an augmented air treatment device arranged essentially according to the device of FIG. 4, but with a humidification module attached. FIG. 9 shows a further simplified schematic diagram of the augmented air treatment device of FIG. 8, where the humidification module is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in different operating states. FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method for augmenting an air treatment device according to the present disclosure.

  FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the air treatment device indicated by reference numeral 10. The device 10 is configured as an air cleaning device. FIG. 2 shows a corresponding partial exploded view of the apparatus 10 in which the views of FIGS. 1 and 2 use similar scale directions but different scale ratios.

  The device 10 comprises a main housing or an overall housing 12. The housing 12 according to the embodiment shown at least in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a generally rectangular or square base region and extends upwardly. Overall, the housing 12 of the device 10 basically defines a cuboid shape. Needless to say, there may be at least slightly curved (convex or concave curved) walls. Furthermore, there may be rounded edges and / or chamfered edges.

  The apparatus 10 further includes an air quality sensor unit 14 as shown in the perspective rear end plan view of FIG. The air quality sensor unit 14 includes at least one air quality sensor configured to detect air characteristics. The air quality sensor unit 14 can monitor inlet air and / or outlet air.

  The device 10 further comprises a user interface 16 that can include appropriate controls, keys, switches, indicators, LEDs, displays, and the like.

  According to the configuration of the exemplary embodiment shown in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus 10 comprises two opposing side inlets covered by an inlet cover 18 arranged as a grill. Furthermore, the apparatus 10 includes an outlet cover 20 on the upper surface side, and the outlet cover 20 is arranged as a grill. The outlet cover 20 is also called an upper grill or an outlet grill.

  The air purification device 10 includes an air purification module 22 that can implement a filter configuration. As shown in FIG. 2, there may be a first type of filter 26 and a second type of filter 28. For example, the filter 26 may be configured as a prefilter. The filter 28 may be configured as a fine filter. Filters 26 and 28 are arranged to filter the inlet air stream entering device 10 through inlet cover 18. Thus, the inlet air flow is basically a lateral flow. Furthermore, the outlet air flow is basically an upward flow.

  Needless to say, there may be various operating principles of the air purification module including heat sterilization, ultraviolet irradiation, photocatalytic oxidation, high efficiency particle capture (HEPA) filtering, ionizer purifier, ozone generator, and combinations thereof. Needless to say.

  The device 10 further comprises a ventilation unit as shown in FIG. According to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the ventilation unit 24 is located inside the housing 12 between the inlets of two opposing units.

  FIG. 3 shows a perspective rear view of the configuration of FIGS. The side of the housing 12 where the at least one air quality sensor of the air quality sensor unit 14 is located is opposite to the side of the housing where the user control 16 is located. However, this exemplary configuration should not be construed in a limiting sense.

  In FIG. 3, the outlet cover 20 is shown separately. Accordingly, the outlet cover 20 is removed from the upper end or the upper end of the housing 12. Therefore, the inner protective cover 32 is exposed. The outlet cover 20 can be configured to be removed without the need for tools. For example, a snap-on or snap-in attachment mechanism can be provided that allows attachment and removal of the outlet cover 20.

  In the state of the device 10 shown in FIG. 3, an attachment module may be attached to the housing 12 to expand the device 10.

  Reference is now further made to FIG. 4 showing an exemplary block diagram of components of the air treatment device 10 that may be configured in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIGS.

  As described above, the apparatus 10 includes an air purification module 22 that implements a filter configuration including filters 26 and 28. For example, two opposing filters 26, 28 can be provided at each side end of the housing 12 of the device 10.

  A ventilation unit 24 is disposed at the center of the housing 12. The ventilation unit 24 has a ventilator 34 driven by a motor 36. The operation of the ventilator 34 is indicated by the curved arrows 36 in FIG. As an example, the ventilator 34 can be configured as a centrifugal ventilator. Therefore, the ventilator 34 can be configured to suck in the intake air in the axial direction and blow out the pressurized outlet air in the radial direction. According to the configuration of FIG. 4, the ventilator 34 is configured to blow out pressurized air upward.

  The inlet flow 42 passes through the flow inlet 40 of the air purification module 22 and enters the ventilator 34. Inlet flow 42 passes through respective filters 26, 28.

  Preferably, the inlet flow 42 comprises two inlet flow components on the opposite axial side of the ventilator 34 associated with a set of two opposing filters 26, 28, as shown in FIGS.

  On the outlet side of the ventilator 34, the outlet flow 48 escapes radially from the ventilator 34 through the flow outlet 46 of the air cleaning module 22 toward the upper grille (exit cover 20). The outlet flow 42 passes through the inner cover 32 (see also FIG. 3).

  Thus, surrounding potentially dirty or contaminated air enters the side of the device 10 and clean air escapes from the device 10 through the top surface.

  The apparatus 10 further includes a control unit 52, which is indicated by the respective control block in FIG. In addition, an operator control 54 is provided. As described above, the sensor unit 56 may be provided. Needless to say, the units 52, 54, and 56 may be mounted on the joint controller.

  The device 10 further comprises a status switch 60, also called a cover sensor. The status switch 60 is configured to detect whether the outlet cover 20 is placed on the housing 12. For safety and functional reasons, the cover sensor 60 may disable the operation of the device 10 when the outlet cover 20 is not attached to the housing 12. For this purpose, the outlet cover 20 may comprise an indicator 62. The cover sensor 20 can detect the presence of the indicator 62. For example, the cover sensor 60 may be configured as a reed switch. Next, the indicator 62 may include a permanent magnet. The presence of the permanent magnet of the indicator 62 activates the cover sensor 60. Thus, when the outlet cover 20 is in place, the device 10 is enabled and set for operation. Other types of non-contact and contact status switches are also conceivable.

  With reference to FIGS. 5-7, the expanded state of the apparatus 10 is shown and will be further described. In FIG. 5, the outlet cover 20 is removed from the upper end of the housing 12 of the device 10. In this state, the humidification module 66 may be coupled to the device 10. The humidification module 66 may also be referred to as an attachment module. Module 66 may be disposed on housing 12. The outlet cover 20 initially placed on the housing 12 may be placed in the expanded state of the device 10 at the upper end of the module 66.

  The main purpose of the humidification module 66 is to humidify the outlet air of the air purification module 22. This can have a further positive effect on the air cleaning function of the device 10. Furthermore, air humidification may regulate the air in the room where the device 10 operates.

  As best seen in FIG. 5, the module 66 may be configured as an accessory module that includes the existing air treatment device 10 being upgraded accordingly. Further, the module 66 can be removed from the device 10 when air humidification is not required.

  Module 66 includes a housing portion 68 adapted to be attached to the entire housing 12 of device 10. Preferably, the module 66 is configured to be attached to the housing 12 in a removable manner that does not require an installation tool, particularly in a snap-on or click-on manner.

  As can be further seen from FIG. 5, the base region of the housing portion 68 basically corresponds to the base region of the housing 12. Accordingly, the expansion device 10 including the module 66 is also integrally formed or integrally formed.

  The module 66 can further include a user control unit 70 to control its operation. User controls 70 can include user interface elements such as buttons, switches, keys, indicators, LEDs, displays, and the like. Furthermore, a control unit 72 may be provided for controlling the operation of the module 66, in particular for controlling the air flow through the module 66.

  The flow inlet of the mounting module 66 is indicated at 74. The flow inlet 74 covers essentially the same as the flow outlet 46 of the basic configuration of the apparatus 10. As a result, purified air escaping from the housing 12 enters the housing portion 68 of the module 66.

  Module 66 has a first flow outlet 76 and at least one second flow outlet 78. The first flow outlet 76 is also referred to as a dry air outlet. The second flow outlet 78 is also referred to as a humidified air outlet.

  As best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, there may be two opposing second flow outlets 78, which are covered by respective side covers 80, also called side grilles. . The first flow outlet 76 is covered by an outlet cover 20 that is also called an upper cover.

  Advantageously, the mounting module 66 is provided with both a first flow outlet 76 and at least one second flow outlet 78. Therefore, the user may select whether or not the purified air supplied by the air treatment device 10 is humidified in addition to the purification function. Further, the degree of humidification may be controlled by the user by controlling the air flow through the first flow outlet 76 and the second flow outlet 78, as described below.

  With particular reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the structure of an exemplary embodiment of the module 66 shown herein will be further described. Module 66 includes a receiving frame 84 configured to receive outlet cover 20. In addition, the module 66 includes a fluid reservoir 86 operably connected to the fluid dispensing unit 88. The fluid distribution unit 88 includes a tray 90. The tray 90 includes a connector 92. The fluid reservoir 86 is provided with a stud 94. The connector 92 and the stud 94 can be coupled together so that fluid (typically water) can be selectively supplied from the fluid reservoir 86 to the fluid distribution unit 88, particularly its tray 90.

  The tray 90 is provided with a fluid absorbing material 96 which is typically arranged as a block or pad. The fluid absorbing material 96 is also called a wick or wick pad.

  Preferably, the fluid distribution unit 88 includes two opposing portions 88a, 88b disposed near the opposing sides of the housing 68. The advantage of this arrangement is that fluid flow through the module 66, which can include a dry flow component and a humidified flow component, is not significantly impeded by the provision of the fluid distribution unit 88. Thus, despite the structural constraints associated with limited installation space, there is sufficient cross-sectional flow area for both drying and humidification flows. Further, the overall outlet flow of module 66 can simultaneously include a dry flow component and a humidified flow component. Thereby, the degree of humidification can be finely adjusted.

  The fluid reservoir 86 is formed with a guide surface 98 that facilitates the flow of air to and through the fluid absorbent material 96 to humidify the air flow passing therethrough. Accordingly, the upwardly directed air flow is deflected laterally by the guide surface 98 and is guided essentially laterally toward the fluid absorbing material 96.

  The passing air stream may entrain fluid (typically water) as it passes through the wick material disposed in the tray 90.

  As indicated above, there may be two pads of fluid absorbing material 96 and two corresponding trays 90. The tray 90 is operably connected to the fluid reservoir 86 so that a predetermined fluid supply rate is provided. The fluid supplied from the fluid reservoir 86 to the tray 90 is absorbed by the absorbent material 96 and gradually transferred to the humidified passing air flow.

  A diversion unit 100 is provided to control the ratio of humidified air to non-humidified air. The shunt unit 100 includes a shunt 102. Preferably, two shunts 102 are provided, which can be arranged in the opposite manner. In the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the shunt 102 includes a louver 104 configured to pivot about an axis 106. For this purpose, the motor 108 can be configured as a stepper motor. As a result, the turning direction of the louver 104 is defined and adjusted. Each of the flow dividers 102 is associated with a respective one of the sections 88a, 88b of the fluid distribution unit 88. Depending on the actual swirl state of the flow divider 102 of the flow dividing unit 100, the ratio of the humidified flow to the dry flow of the overall outlet flow can be controlled. Therefore, the entire humidification can be controlled.

  The user can set a desired ratio of humidified air and dry air via the control unit 70. Depending on the desired ratio, the motor 108 can be actuated by the control unit 72 to move the louver 104 to the required turning state.

  The fluid reservoir 86 includes a fluid compartment 110 that surrounds and defines the central opening 114. The opening 114 defined by the fluid compartment 110 can be referred to as a dry flow opening 114. The opening 114 is associated with the first flow outlet 76.

  In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the central connector 112 is disposed in the opening 114. The central connector 112 connects each portion of the fluid compartment 110 associated with each of the portions 80a, 80b of the fluid distribution unit 88. The central connector 112 may be used as a handle when the fluid reservoir 86 is removed from the module 66 for refilling.

  As described above, the fluid reservoir 86, particularly two opposing portions of its fluid compartment 110, have a vertical direction (perpendicular to the main extension of the outlet cover) and a main extension of the side cover 80. A guide surface 98 which is inclined with respect to the lateral direction (vertical) is provided.

  Thus, the air flow that is essentially directed upward and in contact with the guide surface 98 is deflected toward the side cover 80 and can pass through a wick pad made from the absorbent material 96.

  By controlling the swirl state of the flow divider 102 of the flow dividing unit 100, the user can block the air flow to the first flow outlet 76 or the second flow outlet 78. The two flow dividers 102 of the exemplary embodiment described herein are associated with portions of the fluid compartment 110 of the fluid reservoir 86. In the first swirl state, airflow through the opening 114 is allowed, while airflow toward the second flow outlet 78 is suppressed. In the second swirl state, the air flow through the opening 114 toward the first flow outlet 76 is suppressed, and the air flow toward the second flow outlet 78 is allowed. Needless to say, there may be an intermediate swivel state where both flow components form part of the overall flow. Furthermore, the first turning state and the second turning state are not necessarily accompanied by complete blockage of the hindered flow component.

  Reference is further made to the simplified schematic diagrams of FIGS. 8 and 9 based on the diagram of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 8 and 9, the device 10 includes a humidification module 66.

  As a result, the outlet flow 48 of the air purification module 22 is divided into the first flow component and the second flow component by the diversion unit 100.

  In other words, the air outlet flow 48 escaping through the flow outlet 46 of the air purification module 22 enters the humidification module 66 via the flow inlet 74. Thus, the outlet flow 48 defines the overall inlet flow 120 of the humidification module 66.

  Depending on the actual state of the diversion unit 100, the inlet flow 120 is divided into a first outlet flow 122 and a second outlet flow 124. The first outlet flow 122 escapes from the module 66 via the first flow outlet 76. The second outlet flow 124 escapes from the module 66 via the second flow outlet 78 and the second outlet flow passes through the fluid distribution unit 88 and draws a portion of the fluid provided by the absorbent material 96. In other words, the first outlet flow 122 may be referred to as a drying outlet flow. The second outlet flow 124 may also be referred to as a humidified or wet outlet flow.

  As can be seen from FIGS. 8 and 9, the flow divider 102 of the flow dividing unit 100 is arranged as a shutter that can block or release the respective flow. In the second operating state shown in FIG. 9, the diverter 102 can significantly block the first flow outlet 76. In the first operating state shown in FIG. 9, the diverter 102 can significantly block the second flow outlet. Accordingly, the shares of the first outlet flow 122 and the second outlet flow 124 can be finely adjusted in stages.

  The capacity of the fluid reservoir 86 ensures a predetermined minimum operating time of the module 66. A fill level sensor may be provided in the fluid reservoir 86 that indicates when a refill operation is required.

  As already described in connection with FIG. 4, the device 10 includes a cover sensor 60 that functions as a status switch. To maintain the functionality of the cover sensor 60, the module 66 includes an indicator extension 130 that couples the indicators provided by the outlet cover 20 and the cover sensor 60 with the module 66 disposed therebetween. Therefore, even when the apparatus 10 is enhanced by the humidification module 66, the operation safety improvement function can be maintained.

  Reference is made to FIG. 10, which shows an exemplary block diagram representing an exemplary embodiment of a method for augmenting an air treatment device. The method includes a step S10 of supplying an air treatment device, in particular an air cleaning device. This device does not necessarily have to be equipped with an integral humidification module. Rather, the air treatment device mainly comprises an air purification module. The method further includes step S12 including providing an attachment module arranged as a humidification module. Preferably, the module includes a fluid distribution unit configured to humidify the passing air. Preferably, the module includes a first flow path and a second flow path, wherein the first flow path is a dry flow path where humidification is not performed, and the second flow path is a humidification flow path. is there.

  In order to couple the humidification module to the device 10, several steps S14 to S18 are required. In step S14, the outlet grill of the air treatment device is removed from the housing. Typically, the outlet grill covers the outlet of the air purification module. In a further step S16, when the outlet grill is removed, a humidifying attachment module is placed in the housing instead of the outlet grill. This can include placing a humidification module over the housing of the device.

  In a further step S18, the outlet grill is arranged at the flow outlet of the humidification module. Thus, the outlet grill maintains its function despite the device being augmented by the humidification module. Preferably, the humidification module is configured such that the attachment of the outlet grill activates a state switch of an air treatment device located in the unexpanded state of the device to detect the presence of the outlet grill. As a result, the detection function provided by the status switch can be maintained.

  While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive, that is, the invention is not disclosed. It is not limited to the embodiment. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art from practicing the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, when practicing the present invention.

  In the claims, the term “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the singular does not exclude the presence of a plurality. A single element or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.

  Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

An air treatment device,
A ventilation unit for generating an air flow through the device;
An air purification module for purifying the air;
A main housing having a flow outlet for the purified air;
A humidification mounting module having a flow inlet for the purified air and a housing portion having a first flow outlet;
An outlet grill for covering one of the flow outlet and the first flow outlet;
Have
The humidifying attachment module and the outlet grille, wherein the device comprises the outlet grille covering the first flow outlet, the extended configuration wherein the humidifying attachment module covers the flow outlet instead of the outlet grille, and An air treatment device that covers the flow outlet interchangeably so that an outlet grille can be configured to select both a non-expanded configuration covering the flow outlet. The humidifying module is
A fluid dispensing unit for the humidified fluid supplied by the fluid reservoir;
Said flow inlet for inlet air flow;
A first flow path defined between the flow inlet and the first flow outlet;
A second flow path defined between the flow inlet and a second flow outlet;
A flow splitting unit;
Have
The first flow path bypasses the fluid distribution unit;
The second flow path passes through the fluid distribution unit;
The air treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the flow dividing unit is operable to divide an entire flow passing through the humidification module into a first flow path component and a second flow path component.   The air treatment device of claim 2, wherein the fluid distribution unit comprises an absorbent material configured to store the humidified fluid supplied by the fluid reservoir and drawn in by the passing air flow.   The absorbent material comprises a wick material forming at least one wick pad configured to be impregnated with a humidified fluid, and optionally the wick material is associated with the second flow outlet. 3. The air treatment device according to 3.   The fluid distribution unit has at least two parts spaced apart from each other, the first flow outlet, the first flow path defining an intermediate passage space between the at least two parts of the fluid distribution unit. The air treatment device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the air treatment device is configured to be guided to the first flow outlet.   6. The flow splitting unit of claim 2-5, comprising at least one adjustable shunt operable to adjust a ratio between the first flow path component and the second flow path component. The air processing apparatus of any one of Claims.   The at least one adjustable shunt is configured as a movable louver, and the at least one adjustable shunt is configured to pivot about a pivot axis, thereby depending on the actual pivot state The air treatment device according to claim 6, wherein the air flow is bypassed.   A set of opposing louvers each associated with the fluid distribution unit portion is provided, and the opposing louvers suppress the first flow path component of the overall flow in a second swirl state, and the opposing louvers The air processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the second flow path component of the overall flow is suppressed in the first turning state.   The fluid reservoir has a water compartment defining a bypass opening for the first flow path component, and the fluid reservoir guides the second flow path component to the second flow outlet. The air treatment device according to claim 2, having a guide surface.   The air humidification module is configured in an upper part of the air purification module, supplied with purified air flowing upward, the first flow outlet of the air humidification module is an upper outlet, and the first of the air humidification module The air treatment device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the two flow outlets are side outlets.   The mounting module further comprises an indicator extension configured to operate a status switch on the main housing when the mounting module is installed, the status switch when the exit grill is removed The air treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the operation of the mounting module is disabled.   The air treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment module is configured to be attached to the air treatment device in a snap-on attachment manner.   13. The ventilation unit according to any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the ventilation unit comprises at least one centrifugal ventilator configured to draw in intake air through at least one side inlet opening of the main housing and blow out compressed air upward. The air treatment apparatus according to item 1.   The humidification attachment module used in the air treatment apparatus of any one of Claims 1 thru | or 13. A method for expanding an air treatment device, comprising:
Providing said air treatment device having a housing, at least one ventilation unit, at least one air purification module, an outlet grill covering a flow outlet of the air treatment device, and a humidification mounting module;
Removing the outlet grill from the housing of the air treatment device;
Placing the humidifying attachment module in the housing instead of the outlet grille;
Placing the outlet grille at a first flow outlet of the humidifying attachment module;
And optionally the arrangement of the outlet grille activates a status switch of the air treatment device.

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